The regional unemployment rate for most of Midwestern Ontario fell to its lowest level in almost five years in June 2024.

According to the Four County Labour Market Planning Board’s Monthly Unemployment Release for the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula Economic Region, the jobless rate was 2.4 per cent in June, the lowest since November 2019. The economy for the region added 2,600 new full-time jobs, but this was partially offset by 1,400 part-time employment losses.

Goods-producing sector jobs fell by 500, with declines in forestry, fishing, mining, quarrying, oil and gas, manufacturing, and construction. Utilities and agriculture showed the strongest gains.

Services-producing sector employment increased by 1,600, led by professional services, accommodation and food services, and finance. However, business support services, educational services, and health care and social assistance saw declines.

The Planning Board says job postings for Midwestern Ontario have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, and can be found at connect2JOBS.ca.